Surviving Cryptically: Credence Barebone’s Journey in 'Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald'

In 'Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald', the enigmatic character of Credence Barebone undergoes a transformative journey marked by survival and uncovering his true identity. Unraveling the intricate plot around his survival and the mysteries surrounding his powers can help us understand his character better.

About Credence Barebone: The Obscurial

Credence Barebone is an Obscurial, a rare and dangerous force within the wizarding world. An Obscurial is a young wizard or witch who has suppressed their magical abilities. This suppression can result in the manifestation of an Obscurus, a dark and destructive force that can be incredibly dangerous. In the original film, 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them', it appears that Credence dies at the end, but this is not entirely the case.

The Resilient Obscurus

The Obscurus, referred to as a parasite, can exist separately from the host. In the film, while Credence may have been severely injured, the Obscurus could have persisted, allowing him to survive. This entity, which manifests as a black cloud, follows Credence, suggesting a terrible form of survivor's guilt or a soul-fragmented existence. The notion that this cloud followed Credence to a ruined church, joined with his body, and the partial destruction by Aurors adds another layer to the mystery of his survival.

Grindelwald’s Interest

Albus Dumbledore’s brother, Gellert Grindelwald, is particularly interested in Credence and his powers. Grindelwald views him as having a significant role in the future of the wizarding world, making Credence a central figure in the narrative. This interest provides both a compelling backdrop and a driving force behind the manipulation and actions of Credence throughout the film.

Identity Revelation and Motivation

The film gradually reveals that Credence is actually Aurelius Dumbledore, Albus Dumbledore’s brother. This revelation adds depth to Credence’s character, revealing his quest for identity and belonging. His complex backstory and motivations drive much of the plot, showing the profound impact of his identity on the events unfolding in the wizarding world.

The Obscurus as a Surviving Entity

The Obscurus, despite being a fearsome force, also serves as a survival mechanism for Credence. The cloud’s presence and its independence from Credence highlight the dangerous and often unpredictable nature of the relationship between the host and the Obscurus. Why the Obscurus could follow Credence on its own by sheer willpower remains a mystery, though it suggests a complex bond of power and influence.

Another intriguing aspect is the fate of the Obscurus. According to the cloud’s behavior, it appears it left Credence’s body, possibly to seek its own form of freedom or survival. This adds another layer to the narrative and hints at a possible second confrontation with Credence somewhere in the future.

Backstory: Journey from New York to Europe

Credence’s journey is as mysterious as his powers. After leaving New York, he somehow made his way to Europe, joining a circus. The reasons behind this choice are not entirely clear. Scar newcomers to the series or seasoned fans might recall that Credence boarded a ship called 'Ondine', potentially to an unspecified French port. This journey further reinforces the notion of Credence as a passenger of fate, pushed and pulled by unseen forces.

Conclusion

The survival of Credence Barebone in 'Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald' is a testament to the complex interplay of fate, power, and identity. His transformation from an Obscurial into a character embarking on a quest for identity provides a narrative that is both intriguing and compelling. Fans of the series will undoubtedly enjoy delving into these details, enriching their understanding of the wizarding world and the complexities of its characters.